This is very important and a necessary point of focus by both the public and private sector in developing countries, particularly Zambia - my home country. Creating an enabling environment for business to thrive and trade to grow requires effective and efficient legislation that promotes and encourages IP to be the driving factor of new business ventures and scaling projects that can transform the economy. Business owners and entrepreneurs including the academia, need to educate themselves about the various aspects of intellectual property issues that affect their businesses. And this requires a strong political will from government but also a sense of purpose from the creators and innovators. I think creating deliberate platforms through which these different entities interact and collaborate can be the best starting point. Additionally, investing in digital tools and learning platforms can allow other stakeholders and international players to come in and offer technical support, expertise and mentorship which are all vital ingredients. What do you think? 🤔
Intellectual property: A potential game-changer for least developed countries. In a global economy increasingly driven by innovation and knowledge, intellectual property (IP) can propel sustainable development and economic transformation in the world’s 45 least developed countries. IP rights, including patents, trademarks and copyrights, protect the myriad creations of the mind – from inventions and designs to literary and artistic works. A report by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and The Commonwealth sheds light on a range of tools and options to help least developed countries create an enabling environment for IP rights and use them strategically to unlock innovation, boost trade, attract investment and promote technological upgrading. Full story: https://ow.ly/RquU50QvMZG #WorldIPDay